Ceilings are indeed an integral part of any property. They not only add value to it but ensure safe as well. But what if this same rooftop is not installed right with the proper precautions? You must have encountered such questions while thinking about the installation of your roofs. Isn’t it? You must be aware of Shingles, a ubiquitous ceiling material used in construction, which is best known for its durability and high-weather resistance.
But you know what, often most homeowners make the common mistake of installing shingles over a wet-covered roof. This would appear to be a very minor issue but actually can make you land into a serious concern with time. Yes, you heard it right because installing shingles on the wet-covered rooftops can cause various problems making you compromise the integrity of your ceiling.
First of all, it is pretty vital to understand what are rooftop felts and shingles? Even if you know about them, it is excellent; if not, then do have a look below:
Underlay or rooftop felts are a protective layer between the felt shingles and the roofing deck. This cover is primarily created with a base element that is a mixture of polyester and fiberglass, saturated with bitumen to add water resistance. The roofing felt is used to:
Further, the Felt shingles are likely the outer layer of the ceiling. This layer is responsible for adding an aesthetic appeal to the ceiling, making it resistant to harsh climatic conditions. Durability, ease of installation, and affordability are the top factors that make shingles a preferred choice among technicians and proprietors. Shingles are available in different colors, materials, and styles that allow homeowners to elevate the overall look of their ceilings.
The only concerns with not putting shingles on the wet rooftops are the later consequences of doing so. Indeed, there are specific solid reasons that justify why shingles should be installed only over the dry roof felts. So, here are a few key reasons why you need to dry- off the ceiling felts entirely before you install the shingles over them. They are:
The very generic concern with putting shingles over wet rooftop felts is the moisture entanglement. Wet felts are prone to absorbing moisture between the felts and the ceiling decks. Thus, this trapped moisture can further cause some additional problems like:
The roofing materials like rooftop underlays and shingles are designed to perform efficiently while they get dry. Wet felts can deteriorate quickly and reduce the overall lifespan of the ceiling. Therefore, such degradation can result in frequent repairs and ceiling replacements, further increasing the long-term costs of maintenance.
The climatic conditions are unpredictable, with harsh winds, high humidity levels, storms, and heavy rains. Such type of weather patterns make it hard to ensure the dryness of the rooftop underlays while installing the shingles.
It is incredibly challenging to install shingles over the wet ceiling underlays. Since the wet felts are slippery and so they are more likely to build up the risk of accidents for the technicians. They additionally result in the buckling or wrapping of shingles, making the rooftop surfaces uneven and unappealing.
Another risk with the installation of shingles on a wet ceiling felt is mainly in chilly weather, likely during the fall and winter months. During this season, the rooftop decks are wet due to temperature drops and hail that freeze moisture and result in complications later on. Because frozen moisture might not be noticeable and would cause the shingles to become brittle, so, during the installations, the material would crack or break due to the expansion.
While installing the shingles over the wet-covered rooftops, problems would indeed occur. But you can avoid such issues by taking the following precautions:
Hence, you now know that installing shingles on a wet-covered ceiling is quite problematic. Indeed, it is likely a risky proposition that further gives rise to countless issues like poor fixation, water damage, and leakage. In fact, the moisture entrapped within the shingles can further promote the growth of mold and rot. All such issues adversely affect the longevity and to some additional expensive repair charges. So, if you want to keep up with the longer lifespan of your ceiling, ensure to start placing asphalt only once the roof deck is dried.
Shingles will not fasten effectively if you place them on a wet roof, increasing the growth of the organics within the interiors of the rooftops.
Putting shingles on wet ceilings causes long-term problems like moisture entrapment, limited material longevity, and compromised installation.
Shingles are generally made from fiberglass, which adds durability, and asphalt for building flexibility and water resistance. Shingles do not get damaged in water, but yes, they do become very slippery.
Wet asphalt shingles can easily fall as they are very slick. So, while you walk, the minute particles of the asphalts easily get damaged and tear away them.
Use of shingles on wet rooftops causes issues like cracking and warping. This allows water to seep deep inside and promotes mold growth, affecting the efficiency of the rooftops.
You should ensure the roof deck is completely dried, usually for 24 to 48 hours, before installing the shingles on the roof decks.
Use a breathable tarp or cover to avoid moisture trapping within the roofs to prevent moisture and rotting beneath the protective covering.
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